Merino rescues Arsenal as 10-man Chelsea hold EPL leaders

Mikel Merino delivered a crucial equaliser as Arsenal battled to a 1-1 draw against 10-man Chelsea in a high-stakes Premier League showdown on Sunday.

The match ignited midway through the first half when Moisés Caicedo was shown a straight red card in the 38th minute for a reckless challenge on Merino, catching the Arsenal midfielder painfully on the ankle. Despite being reduced to 10 men, Chelsea struck first shortly after the break.

Trevoh Chalobah powered home a header from Reece James’ corner in the 48th minute, rewarding the hosts for their spirited response.

Arsenal, however, refused to let the setback derail them. Merino, involved in the flashpoint that saw Caicedo dismissed, leveled the score in the 59th minute with a close-range header from Bukayo Saka’s pinpoint delivery. The goal ensured the league leaders escaped Stamford Bridge without defeat in a bruising contest loaded with title implications.

The draw keeps Arsenal five points ahead of Manchester City, who beat Newcastle on Saturday, and six clear of third-placed Chelsea. With 17 unbeaten games in all competitions, including 14 victories, the Gunners remain firmly positioned as favourites to claim their first Premier League title since 2004. Chelsea’s gritty display, however, underlined their potential to emerge as Arsenal’s most persistent challengers as the season progresses.

“We showed we’re moving in the right direction,” Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca said.

“We were the better side at 11 v 11. Going a man down changes everything, but the way we handled it was outstanding.”

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta praised the ferocity and commitment on display from both teams. “Two sides playing with real intensity, you could feel it in every tackle,” he said.

“We scored a fantastic goal and created two or three big chances. It’s been an emotionally and physically demanding week for us.”